Meet the Artist of The Linnet Bird - Carly Jane Lee Seattle, Washington
Inspired by natural creativity, a passion for beautiful silver jewelry, and the uniquely formed gemstones in the desert of America’s southwest, The Linnet Bird was born. As a recent transplant to the Seattle area, Carly Jane Lee recalls the varied hues of the Mojave desert on childhood trips with her family.
“My dad loved getting up right at dawn & would encourage my brother & me to go with him on hikes into the desert.” It was from these visual images of colored sands and multihued canyons that the palate of The Linnet Bird’s pieces would take shape. “I wanted to create silver jewelry that would embody the dazzling serenity of the desert.” Incorporating influences from a foreign geography might be risky to those used to the temperate climates of the Northwest. “Beauty is universal, whether they originate from drier climates or from the oceans & mountains.” It’s this inclusive beauty that The Linnet Bird endeavors to showcase throughout it’s collection while using beautiful silver as a strong framework.
The Linnet Bird’s name originates from bird watchers & collectors from Europe’s royal families. Beginning in the 15th century, those who appreciated linnet birds, prized them for their ability to always carry a beautiful song. This capacity to sing despite being domesticated were valued to those who sought after the petite red-breasted bird. Even during the colder and darker months of the year the linnet bird would continue to sing it’s cheerful song. “Everyone, no matter their success level, needs encouragement throughout their personal and professional lives,” says creator Carly Jane Lee. It was with this perspective in mind that the earrings in her collection celebrate the strong, simple, yet enduring beauty derived from the linnet bird. The stones and desert gems are partnered onto these silver frameworks that emulate their strength from a small endearingly happy bird.